The Canadian Press
Published Friday, September 18, 2015 8:53AM CST
Last Updated Friday, September 18, 2015 12:22PM CST

REGINA -- NDP Leader Tom Mulcair went to a Liberal-held riding today to announce he plans to work with the provinces to support universal prescription drug coverage -- but the party is not classifying their promise as a national pharmacare plan.

Speaking in Regina on Friday morning, Mulcair promised $2.6-billion over four years with the goal of achieving universal access.

The NDP says it will also target a 30-per-cent average reduction in the cost of prescription drugs through bulk purchasing programs, hoping to generate three-billion dollars in savings.

Mulcair made the announcement in the riding of Regina-Wascana, which has been held by Liberal Ralph Goodale since 1993.

The riding was one of two Prairie seats retained by the Grits in the 2011 election.

Mulcair was in Calgary last night to face off with Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau and Conservative Leader Stephen Harper in the economic debate.

The debate marked a crucial moment in the campaign.

The main parties continue jockey for support in a tight three-way race leading up to Oct. 19.